Tag: Environment & Nature

Integrative Biology

Major Description

From genomics to global change, integrative biology seeks to discover the complex interrelationships between living organisms and the physical and biological environment in which they live. This is the new biology, with an emphasis on bringing multiple disciplines to bear on complex scientific questions. For students, this emphasis leads to a deep understanding of biology and its interrelationships.

Our curriculum provides instruction regarding principles of biology, but also emphasizes the critical thinking and analytical skills required for a successful career in STEM fields.

More About Integrative Biology
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

How does Integrative Biology differ from Molecular and Cellular Biology?

Those interested in an interdisciplinary approach focused on the complex relationships between different areas of study in biology will likely find a good match in Integrative Biology, while those interested in the detailed workings of the human immune system or structure-function relationships in proteins will likely find more relevant courses in Molecular & Cellular Biology. Students should note which aspects of biology interest them as they take the shared introductory courses to distinguish which option will be the best fit.

Integrative Biology (IB)

Integrative Biology seeks to discover the complex interrelationships between organisms and the physical and biological environment in which they live. The IB major provides students with a solid foundation in areas that include anatomy, behavior, ecology, evolution, genetics, genomics and physiology.

Molecular & Cellular Biology (MCB)

Molecular & Cellular Biology is focused on the fundamental structures, functions and mechanisms of living organisms. The MCB major provides students with a solid foundation in areas that include molecular genetics, microbiology, cell biology, developmental biology, biochemistry, physiology, and structural biology.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • IB 150—Organismal and Evolutionary Biology
  • MCB 150—Molecular and Cellular Basis of Life

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

This major prepares students for careers in multiple areas in the life sciences including health professions such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, and optometry. Other fields include conservation biology, sustainability, bioinformatics, forensic science, research, biotechnology, and teaching.

Common Career Skills
  • Analytical & quantitative abilities
  • Application of information technology
  • Attention to detail/detail oriented
  • Biology theory & practical knowledge
  • Critical thinking
  • Curiosity and creativity
  • Hypothesis construction
  • Independent worker
  • Information handling & organization
  • Innovative talents
  • Numerical computation
  • Operate scientific equipment
  • Oral & written communication
  • Problem solving
  • Statistical awareness
  • Teamwork
  • Technical skills
Common Career Titles
  • Aquarist
  • Arborist
  • Biological Scientist
  • Botanist
  • Consumer Products Researcher
  • Dentist
  • Doctor
  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • Ecologist
  • Fish & Game Warden
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Forester and Conservation Scientist
  • Genetic Counselor
  • High School Biology Teacher
  • Lab and Field Technician
  • Marine Scientist
  • Medical Illustrator
  • Medical Transcriptionist
  • Medical Writer
  • Microbiologist
  • Oceanographer
  • Pharmacist
  • Physician Assistant
  • Professor
  • Quality Control Specialist
  • Teacher
  • Veterinarian

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • Integrative Illini: provides IB majors and students in other related sciences a community in which to network, learn more about research and how to get involved, and to volunteer to give back to the Champaign Urbana community. 
    • Illinois Student Chapter of the Wildlife Disease Association: focuses on the health and disease of wild animals in relation to their biology, conservation, research, and interactions with humans, domestic animals, and zoological species.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Integrative Biology. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Integrative Biology. These organizations include American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Institute of Biological Sciences, and American Society for Cell Biology.

To learn more about what you can do with your IB degree, visit the Alumni Mentoring Program resources page and scroll down to the “Careers In…” handouts or contact Christina Swanson at sillima2@illinois.edu.

Book an advising appointment with IB.

Geology

Major Description

Geology is the scientific study of the Earth, including how it works and its history and evolution over 4.6 billion years. Geologists study important societal problems, such as natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, floods); energy, mineral, and water resources; and other environmental issues (climate change, pollution, land use). Because it encompasses physical, chemical, and biological sciences, many specializations are available.

More About Geology
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Programs of Study

Within Geology, there are two programs of study available, each with their own set of possible concentrations.

Sciences and Letters Curriculum

Designed for students who want a more flexible course of study than is provided by the Specialized Curriculum in Geology and Geophysics. It may be used by those wishing to obtain a more liberal education and/or background in geology for use in fields such as anthropology, business, mineral economics, regional planning, journalism, law, sales, or library and information science. It is not intended to prepare a student for graduate work in the geological sciences unless the student selects additional courses in mathematics, chemistry, and physics comparable to those required in the Specialized Geology and Geophysics Curriculum.

Geology
Designed for students who want a more flexible course of study than is provided by the specialized curriculum . It may be used by those wishing to obtain a more liberal education and/or a background in geology for use in fields such as anthropology, business, mineral economics, regional planning, journalism, law, sales, or library and information science.

Earth and Environmental Sciences
Designed for students who want a flexible course of study in preparing an interdisciplinary foundation for careers in many different areas including environmental law, business administration, land-use planning, the National Park Service, the Environmental Protection Agency, journalism, and many others. It emphasizes applied aspects of earth and environmental sciences including: natural disasters, earth resources, global change, environmental health, waste disposal, landscape evaluation, and land-use planning. Environmental processes and issues, as well as their implications for public policy, are addressed on a regional to global scale.

Earth Science Teaching
Designed for students preparing to teach earth science or general science as their major area of specialization. Students must complete the Teacher Education Minor in Secondary School Teaching (37 hours).

More information on the degree requirements.

Specialized Curriculum in Geology

Designed for students who plan to pursue graduate study in geology or geophysics or who wish to work professionally in the environmental field upon obtaining the bachelor’s degree. It offers more training in geology and related science than is required in the Sciences and Letters Curriculum. There are three concentrations to choose from:

Geology
Designed for students who plan to pursue graduate study in geology or who wish to work professionally in the geological field upon obtaining the bachelor’s degree.

Geophysics
Designed for students who plan to pursue graduate study in geophysics or who wish to work professionally in the geophysical field upon obtaining the bachelor’s degree.

Environmental Geology
Designed for students who plan to pursue graduate study in environmental geology or who wish to work professionally in the environmental field upon obtaining the bachelor’s degree.

More information on the degree requirements.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • GEOL 107—Physical Geology
  • GEOL 100—Planet Earth
  • GEOL 117—The Oceans
  • GEOL 118—Natural Disasters

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Geology provides a number career opportunities for graduates of the major.

Common Career Skills
  • Ability to conduct/clearly explain scientific research
  • Ability to make appropriate decisions and solve quantitative problems
  • Ability to work with people from varied backgrounds
  • Intellectual capacity to perform well in college
  • Proficiency in reading, writing and memorization
  • Thorough knowledge of geological principles and mathematics
Common Career Titles
  • Aerial Photographer
  • Agricultural Engineer
  • Astronomer
  • Cartographer
  • Consultant
  • Economic Geologist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Geologist
  • Forest Ranger
  • Geodynamicist
  • Geologist
  • Geomorphologist
  • Geophysical Exploration
  • Geophysics Technician
  • Geo-Technical Engineer
  • Glacial Geologist
  • Hydrogeologist
  • Hydrologist
  • Industrial Hygienist
  • Landscape/Nursery Manager
  • Materials Analyst
  • Mineralogist
  • National Park Service Professional
  • Oceanographer
  • Paleoceanographer
  • Paleoclimatologist
  • Paleontologist
  • Petroleum Geologist
  • Petrologist
  • Planetary Geologist
  • Prospector
  • Seismologist
  • Soil Scientist
  • Stratigrapher
  • Structural Geologist
  • Surveyor
  • Volcanologist

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Geology.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Geology.  These organizations include Geological Society of America, American Geosciences Institute, American Geophysical Union, Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists, and the U.S. Geological Survey.

Geography & Geographic Information Science

Major Description

Geography and Geographic Information Science (GIS) is the study of the where and why of places. Geographers create, manage, and use geospatial data from satellites, GPS, drones, and other sources to understand how places change and the social and environmental challenges they face. Geographers also study how people interact with and affect their environments and how environments in turn affect their lives and well-being.

GGIS is a flexible major. It offers Bachelor of Science concentrations in GIS and physical geography, and Bachelor of Arts concentrations in general and human geography. With their training in mapping, spatial analysis and critical thinking, geographers can help tackle place-based challenges including transportation, public health, natural hazards, housing, and environmental justice.

More About GGIS
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Geography and GIS offers four different concentrations.

General Geography

ntegrate social science, physical science, and technology to study how people use the Earth’s surface and how places change and develop. Students can sample courses from different subfields of geography without having to choose a specialty. Upon completion, students are prepared for careers in planning, environmental analysis, and transportation, or for further graduate studies in geography and GIS. More information on the Degree Requirements.

Geographic Information Science (GIS)

Use cutting-edge geospatial technologies and data to examine environmental and social issues; support business decisions; protect the environment; and manage the massive amounts of spatial data generated from mobile devices and sensor networks. The GIS concentration provides in-depth technical and field training, preparing students for geospatial careers- one of the fastest-growing domestic job sectors. More information on the Degree Requirements.

Human Geography

Explore the social science aspect of modern geography. The curriculum includes the systematic study of human social organization and its environmental consequences. Employment opportunities include urban and regional planning, transportation, marketing, real estate, tourism, and international business. More information on the Degree Requirements.

Physical Geography

The Physical Geography concentration examines the environmental sciences including patterns of climate, landforms, vegetation, soils, and water. Graduates of our physical geography concentration will be equipped for careers in environmental science and consulting, land and water resource management, and remote sensing using drones and satellites. More information on the Degree Requirements.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • GEOG 101—Global Development & Environment
  • GEOG 103—Earth’s Physical Systems
  • GEOG 104—Social and Cultural Geography
  • GEOG 105—The Digital Earth

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

A major in Geography and GIS can lead to graduate school or many different possible careers.

Common Career Skills

Communication

  • Communicate across cultures
  • Present/defend position
  • Summarize results
  • Understand societies
  • Write clearly

Project Development

  • Develop project designs
  • Evaluation
  • Maintain records
  • Plan long-term projects
  • Write grant proposals

Interpersonal

  • Identify value systems
  • Interview skills
  • Recognize similarities
  • Surveying & sampling
  • Understand group dynamics

Research/Analysis

  • Apply non-intrusive methods
  • Computer modeling
  • Conduct field studies
  • Examine data
  • Gather & organize data
  • Read/construct maps/graphs
  • Utilize statistical applications
Common Career Titles
  • Aerial Photo Interpreter
  • Cartographer
  • Community Developer
  • Computer Mapper
  • Demographer
  • Environmental Impact Analyst
  • Health Services Planner
  • Land-Use Analyst
  • Land Developers
  • Land Economist
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Urban or Regional Planner

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Geography & GIS.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Geography & GIS.  These organizations include Association of American Geographers, University Consortium for GIS, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Earth, Society, & Environmental Sustainability

Major Description

Earth, Society, and Environmental Sustainability (ESES) offers a unique, multidisciplinary program in which students will learn about the interconnectedness of environmental, economic, and social systems of the world; the implications of our actions on the environment; factors that determine the sustainability of human institutions, organizations, cultures, and technologies; finding solutions through innovative approaches; and expanding future options by practicing environmental stewardship. Following the classical definition of sustainability, the aim is to develop citizens, businesses, and societies that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.

More About ESES
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Students select one concentration in consultation with an academic advisor:

Science of the Earth System

A rigorous scientific program in the geophysical and ecological sciences focused on the complexity and interactions of natural systems.

Society and the Environment

A  balanced cross-disciplinary social science/humanities education, emphasizing the political, socio-cultural, economic, and historical dimensions of sustainability.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • ESE 100 — Sustainable Earth
  • ESE 200 — Earth Systems
  • ESE 210 — Social & Environmental Systems
  • ESE 222 — Big Rivers
  • ESE 289 — Environmental & Sustainability Field Studies

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

ESE students have gone on to graduate programs across the country – in Medicine, Law, Biology, Public Affairs, Journalism and more – and careers for organizations large and small, including positions in environmental consulting, business consulting, sustainability management, teaching, wetlands restoration, the Peace Corps and environmental engineering.

Common Career Skills
  • Analyze data
  • Communication
  • Data collection
  • Plan investigations
  • Teamwork
  • Understand and interpret information including quantitative data
Common Career Titles
  • Environmental Communications Expert
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Lawyer
  • Environmental Legislative Liaison
  • Environmental Manager
  • Environmental Planner
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Environmental Researcher
  • Environmental Specialist
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Sustainability Officer
  • Urban Planner

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • Students for Environmental Concerns: educates and informs students and community members about environmental issues and works towards positive environmental change on a national, statewide, and local level.
    • Eco Illini Supermileage Vehicle Team: designs and fabricates a highly fuel efficient car to compete annually in the Shell Eco-Marathon Americas Competition.
    • Student Sustainability Committee: Funds environmental and sustainability projects across campus

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Earth, Society and Environmental Sustainability.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Earth, Society and Environmental Sustainability.  These organizations include Ecological Society of America, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and National Council for Science and the Environment.

Computer Science & Geography and Geographic Information Science

Major Description

Everything happens somewhere, and data from satellites, drones, sensor networks, and global positioning systems tell us what happens where in unprecedented detail. Illinois is the national leader in Cyber GIS — the use of high-performance computing to answer geospatial questions. Students in CS+GGIS learn about geospatial data — where it comes from and how it’s used — while developing advanced programming skills for creating new methods, tools, and maps of the Earth’s changing environments.

More About CS+GGIS
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CS 124—Intro to Computer Science 1
  • CS 128—Intro to Computer Science 2 
  • GEOG 101—Global Development & Environment
  • GEOG 103—Earth’s Physical Systems
  • GEOG 105—The Digital Earth
  • GEOG 104—Social and Cultural Geography
  • GEOG 379—Intro to GIS Systems

Possible Career Opportunities

Geographic Information Science is one of the fastest-growing career fields in the U.S.

Many GGIS graduates work in the geospatial sector in areas like: transportation, energy, retail location, precision agriculture, environmental assessment, and healthcare. Companies include: Google, Arcadis, NokiaHere, MGP, West Monroe Partners, Microsoft, and Walgreens. Many also work in the public sector in organizations such as: the Chicago Transit Authority, the Champaign County Planning Dept, and the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency.

Common Career Skills
  • Coding
  • Problem solving
  • Spatial data analysis
  • Cartography
Common Career Titles
  • Analyst
  • Programmer
  • Cartographer
  • GIS developer
  • Photogrammetrist

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • Illinois Cartographic Society
    • Urban & Geographic Information Systems Group (GIS Group): facilitates the professional development of undergraduate students while providing unique and valuable services to the U-C community, employing skills learned in the classroom in undertaking real-world projects.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Geography & GIS.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Geography & GIS.  These organizations include Association of American Geographers, Geological Society of America, and Environmental Protection Agency.

Computer Science & Chemistry

Major Description

Students majoring in CS & Chemistry are prepared for a variety of careers, including helping manufacturers design more productive and efficient processes, helping pharmaceutical firms characterize new compounds for drug discovery, and conducting research that requires studying the fundamental properties of atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions.

CS & Chemistry majors might develop computer models or simulate chemical and biochemical processes, perform statistical analysis of large data sets, or create visualizations of reaction pathways, molecular interactions, or other phenomena.

More About CS & Chemistry
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CHEM 102/103 – General Chemistry I / General Chemistry Lab I
  • CHEM 104/105 – General Chemistry II/ General Chemistry Lab II
  • CS 124—Intro to Computer Science 1
  • CS 128—Intro to Computer Science 2 
  • CS 173 – Discrete Structures
  • MATH 220 – Calculus
  • MATH 221 – Calculus I

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

CS & Chemistry majors acquire skills that can be applicable to a variety of areas.

Common Career Skills
  • Analyze data
  • Apply science and math
  • Collaborate on interdisciplinary teams
  • Conduct research
  • Develop theories
  • Display curiosity and adaptability
  • Focus on details
  • Implement programming and computer skills
  • Possess broad business acumen
  • Persevere
  • Utilize formulas
  • Write and communicate verbally
Common Career Titles
  • Analyst
  • Analytical Chemist
  • Business Analyst
  • Business Development
  • Associate Chemist
  • Clinical Trial Operation
  • Development Program
  • College professor*
  • Emergency Department Technician
  • Forensic Chemist
  • Health Statistician
  • IT Specialist
  • Lab Technician
  • Manager of Research & Testing*
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Patent Agent
  • Quality Control
  • Manager Research
  • Engineer Research Supervisor*
  • Sales Manager
  • Science Laboratory
  • Technician Software Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Technical Sales Representative
  • Technical Writer

* Indicates a career that requires education beyond the undergraduate degree

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Computer Science and Chemistry.  These organizations include Association for Computing Machinery and the American Chemical Society.

Computer Science & Astronomy

Major Description

Do you love pursuing and discovering new knowledge? Would you like to apply your problem-solving skills and computational expertise to big-impact mysteries like the origins of life and our universe? If you answered yes to either question, then you should consider the CS + Astronomy degree.

The LAS major in Computer Science + Astronomy is a flexible program for students who plan to pursue technical or professional careers in arts and sciences areas requiring a sound grounding in computer science. This major allows students to combine study of computer science with training in Astronomy to offer students novel perspectives in interdisciplinary work. Students can use the supporting coursework to prepare for employment immediately upon graduation or for pursuing graduate study in a wide variety of fields or to complete a significant body of courses in a single area, such as a double major or minor. Students who plan to pursue graduate study in astronomy or astrophysics will be well-served by pursuing a double major in physics.

Students are strongly encouraged to get involved in undergraduate research through independent studies and funded research experiences, with the goal of learning from the University of Illinois CS and LAS internationally recognized scholars outside the classroom and participating in the exciting quest for new contributions to the field.

More About CS + Astronomy
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CS 124—Intro to Computer Science 1
  • CS 128—Intro to Computer Science 2 
  • CS 173 – Discrete Structures 
  • MATH 220/221, 231, 241 – Calculus sequence
  • PHYS 211 – University Physics: Mechanics
  • ASTR 210 – Introduction to Astrophysics

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

After earning their CS + Astronomy degrees, our graduates are poised to launch their careers or pursue graduate studies in a wide variety of fields

Common Career Skills
  • Ability to analyze & interpret data
  • Advanced quantitative skills
  • Communication
  • Computer skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Data science
  • Experimental design
  • Gathering observations/data
  • Hardware systems
  • Logic and reasoning skills
  • Networking
  • Problem solving skills
  • Software systems
  • Teamwork
  • Technical writing
Common Career Titles
  • Applications Programmer
  • Artificial Intelligence Specialist
  • Astronomer
  • Astrophysicist
  • Computer Engineer
  • Computer Programmer
  • Computer Systems Manager
  • Data Scientist
  • Database Manager
  • Operating Systems Programmer
  • Operations Research Specialist
  • Professor
  • Research Associate
  • Research Programmer
  • Research Scientist
  • Scientist
  • Software Engineer
  • Systems Analyst
  • Systems Software Developer
  • Technical Writer

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • iRobotics: A community of students interested in competing in CARD and other robotics competitions, as well as spreading the word of science and technology to the community.
    • Women in Computer Scinece (WCS): Women in Computer Science is a non-profit, educational, service organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of young women who are considering pursuit of a career in computer science or show an overall interest in computers.
    • Astronomical Society at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIAS): To interest and educate students, faculty, staff, and the community about the wonders of astronomy.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science and Astronomy. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Computer Science & Astronomy. These organizations include American Astronomical Society and American Association for Artificial Intelligence.

Computer Science & Anthropology

Major Description

Interested in how technology can be responsive to social challenges? This is a flexible program for students who plan to pursue technical or professional careers in areas requiring a sound grounding in computer science, but want to distinguish themselves with nuanced understanding of culture and communication across different societies.

CS+Anthropology teaches students to analyze complex social and biological processes with a view to making a real difference in the world. Coursework explores areas such as: Cross-cultural to human-machine interaction; technological potential for improving social life and organization, and the ethical challenges and limits of new technologies.

Subfields may include biological anthropology, sociocultural, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology.

More About CS+Anthropology
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CS 124—Intro to Computer Science 1
  • CS 128—Intro to Computer Science 2 
  • CS 173 – Discrete Structures 
  • MATH 220/221, 231, 241 – Calculus sequence
  • ANTH 101 – Intro to Anthropology
  • ANTH 220-Intro to Archaeology (or ANTH 105)
  • ANTH 230-Sociocultural Anthropology (or ANTH 103)
  • ANTH 240-Biological Anthropology (or ANTH 102)
  • ANTH 270-Language in Culture (or ANTH 104)
  • ANTH 374-Anth of Science and Technology (or ANTH 372)

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

CS & Anthropology majors can apply their skills to a variety of roles.

Common Career Skills
  • Ability to analyze & interpret data
  • Advanced quantitative skills
  • Computer literacy
  • Critical thinking
  • Efficient
  • Logical thinking
  • Numerical computation
  • Organizational skills
  • Problem solving
  • Systemizing skills
  • Team skills
  • Testing skills
Common Career Titles
  • Experience Researcher 
  • Human Factors Design
  • Human Geographer
  • Data Scientist
  • Archaeological Field Technician
  • Museum Specialist
  • Behavioral/Social Scientist
  • Ethnographic/Qualitative Researcher

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

  • Participating in undergraduate research
  • Applying for a study abroad experience
  • Utilizing resources of The Career Center
  • Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) related to this major, such as:
    • iRobotics: A community of students interested in competing in CARD and other robotics competitions, as well as spreading the word of science and technology to the community.
    • Women in Computer Scinece (WCS): Women in Computer Science is a non-profit, educational, service organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of young women who are considering pursuit of a career in computer science or show an overall interest in computers.
    • Anthropology Club/Lambda Alpha (ACLA): We are a group of fun, friendly, dedicated students who love Anthropology! We offer academic guidance and opportunities, form professional networks and organize social events to enrich the experience of students interested in Anthropology.

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Computer Science and Anthropology. Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Computer Science & Anthropology. These organizations include American Anthropological Society and American Association for Artificial Intelligence.

Chemistry

Major Description

Chemistry involves the study of the composition and properties of matter and the investigation of the laws that govern the combination of elements. Chemistry is both theoretical and applied; it plays a vital role in everyone’s life, and yet may be the most abstract of sciences. Chemists are scientists whose activities can include pure research, product development, writing, administration, marketing, and teaching.

More About Chemistry
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Programs of Study

There are two programs of study offered in Chemistry along with two possible concentrations: one in Environmental Chemistry, the other in Chemistry Teaching.

Sciences and Letters Curriculum

There are two concentrations offered through Sciences and Letters.

Sciences and Letters

“Bachelor of Science in LAS with a Major in Chemistry”

The Sciences & Letters degree is designed for students who need a background in chemistry for work in related fields, are planning business or administrative careers in the chemical industry, or are preparing for professional education in health fields (medicine, pharmacy, etc.) or law. Some students who plan for further graduate study or professional careers in chemistry find that the Sciences & Letters degree best suits their needs.

Chemistry Teaching

This concentration fulfills state certification requirements to teach high school (grades 9-12) chemistry through the AP/honors level as well as biology, earth and space science, environmental science, and physics up to the AP/honors level. Students in this concentration must also complete the Teacher Education Minor in Secondary School Teaching.

More information about the degree requirements.

Specialized Curriculum

There are two concentrations offered through the Specialized Curriculum.

Specialized Curriculum

“Bachelor of Science in Chemistry”

A program certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS) that is primarily intended for students who plan to pursue a PhD in Chemistry. A student who selects this program should start freshman year with a strong technical program (courses in Accelerated Chemistry, Calculus, and Physics); otherwise it may be difficult to complete the program in four years.

Environmental Chemistry

This option is designed to provide a background in environmental chemistry sufficient in breadth and depth to prepare someone to work as an environmental chemist in the public or private sector and/ or to pursue an advanced degree in the field. Students who complete this option will be certified in environmental chemistry by the American Chemical Society (ACS).

More information about the degree requirements.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CHEM 102/103—General Chemistry I / General Chemistry Lab I
  • CHEM 104/105—General Chemistry II / General Chemistry Lab II
  • CHEM 202/203—Accelerated Chemistry I/Accelerated Chemistry Lab I
  • CHEM 204/205—Accelerated Chemistry II/Accelerated Chemistry Lab II
  • MATH 220—Calculus
  • MATH 221—Calculus I

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Students who enter the workforce with their Bachelors tend to work in industry, government, or education. Quite a few undergraduate Chemistry majors continue with graduate education in chemistry, medicine, pharmacy, law, or other fields.

Common Career Skills
  • Analyze data
  • Apply science and math
  • Collaborate on interdisciplinary teams
  • Conduct research
  • Develop theories
  • Display curiosity and adaptability
  • Focus on details
  • Implement programming and computer skills
  • Possess broad business acumen
  • Persevere
  • Utilize formulas
  • Write and communicate orally
Common Career Titles
  • Agricultural Scientist
  • Analyst
  • Analytical Chemist
  • Anesthesiologist*
  • Applications Scientist
  • Associate Consultant
  • Biochemical Toxicologist*
  • Biochemist
  • Business Analyst
  • Business Development Associate
  • Chemist
  • Clinical Trial Operation
  • Development Program
  • College professor*
  • Dentist*
  • Elementary/Secondary teacher
  • Emergency Department Technician
  • Environmental Chemist
  • Food Scientist/Technologist
  • Forensic Chemist
  • Health Administrator
  • Health Statistician
  • Industrial Hygienist
  • IT Consulting Analyst
  • Lab instructor
  • Lab Technician
  • Manager of Research & Testing*
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Nuclear Physicist*
  • Occupational Safety Specialist
  • Patent Agent
  • Pharmaceutical Sales
  • Pharmacist*
  • Physician*
  • Project Engineer
  • Quality Control Manager
  • Radiation Oncologist*
  • Radiologist*
  • Research Engineer
  • Research Supervisor*
  • Sales Manager
  • Science Laboratory Technician
  • Software Developer
  • Soil Scientist
  • Technical Sales Representative
  • Technical Writer
  • Toxicologist*
  • Veterinarian*
  • Water Purification Chemist

* Indicates a career that requires education beyond the undergraduate degree

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Chemistry.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Chemistry.  These organizations include American Chemical Society.

Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

Major Description

Chemical and biomolecular engineering is a diverse and exciting field where you could find yourself creating life-saving medicines, advancing fuel cell research, or developing the next big food item to hit grocery store shelves. It’s about improving things that people use every day while reducing their cost. Around the world, Illinois alumni can be found reducing costs at production facilities and building reactors to manufacture new materials. They’ve been instrumental in developing products like Tide (Procter & Gamble), Cheerios (General Mills), DiGiorno pizza (Nestle), and Cottonelle tissue (Kimberly-Clark). Rooted in chemistry, chemical engineering applies the principles of chemistry often, but not limited to, a large scale. Chemists often synthesize new molecules or mixtures on the size scale of beakers. Chemical engineers then work to scale up the synthesis process to meet market demand.

More About Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
Degree Requirements
ICT Requirements

Concentrations

Two concentrations are offered through Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

Chemical Engineering

Designed to prepare students for careers in the chemical, food, energy, pharmaceutical, semiconductor processing, personal care, fiber, and materials industries where chemical processes are coupled with heat, mass, and momentum transfer.

Biomolecular Engineering

Builds upon the traditional principles of Chemical Engineering, but specializes in biological and biotechnological systems in order to better prepare students who seek employment in the food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries.

Courses That Introduce the Major

  • CHBE 121—Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering Profession
  • CHBE 221 – Principles of Chemical Engineering
  • CHEM 202/203—Accelerated Chemistry I / Accelerated Chemistry Lab I
  • CHEM 204/205—Accelerated Chemistry II / Accelerated Chemistry Lab II
  • MATH 220/221—Calculus/Calculus I

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities

Chemical engineers work in a variety of segments within the chemical, petroleum, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries industries, including processing, manufacturing, research and development, management, environmental compliance, and business.

Common Career Skills
  • Able to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
  • Able to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors. 
  • Effective written and oral communication with a range of audiences.
  • Recognizes ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and able to make informed, contextually specific judgments.
  • Functions effectively in a team environment where members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
  • Develops and conducts appropriate experimentation, analyzes and interprets data, and uses engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  • Acquires and applies new knowledge as needed using appropriate learning strategies.
Common Career Titles
  • Manufacturing Engineer (Procter & Gamble)
  • Process Design Engineer (ExxonMobil)
  • Career Development Engineer (Honeywell/UOP)
  • Production Engineer (ADM)
  • Quality Associate Engineer (General Mills)
  • Manufacturing Scientist (Eli Lilly & Company)
  • Corporate Project Engineer (3M)
  • Rotational Engineer (AkzoNobel)
  • Technical Problem Solver (Epic Systems)

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience

Further Information

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.  These organizations include American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Division of Exploratory Studies
Illini Union Bookstore, Floor 5
807 S. Wright Street
Champaign, Illinois 61820
217-333-4710

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